A new build can certainly be an exciting time, but there is a lot to think about and a lot to accomplish. For both residential and commercial builds, the plumbing system and related fittings is an integral part of the process that needs careful consideration during the planning process and along every step of the building process. With this in mind, let’s take a look at plumbing considerations as they pertain to a new building project.
Formulate An idea Of Your Plumbing Requirements
While this will be further nutted out during the planning process and by collaborating with your chosen plumber, before you even reach those stages, it’s a good idea to give the plumbing some thought beforehand to gain a better understanding of what you need with regards to plumbing in your new build.
Once you have an idea of what you want and require, it’ll make the design process faster and smoother and you’ll be able to more effectively convey your ideas to those involved in the design and planning stages.
For homes, you’ll want to give a lot of thought to the kitchen, bathrooms and laundry, what you need, the layout and the fixtures. And don’t forget things like exterior taps and where they should be located. Are any outdoor showers required?
Tips For Finding the Right Plumber
Finding the right plumber for your new build is vital. The first thing you could do is to ask the people you know for personal recommendations. Alternatively, the internet is a quick and easy place to search for quality plumbers in your area.
You also want to be certain that the plumber you’re looking to hire does the kind of plumbing work you need and that they have past experience (such as in commercial new builds, if it’s a commercial project). You’ll want to commence your search for a plumber well in advance of the project’s start date and you’ll want to have satisfactory answer to the following questions:
l Does the plumbing company do new builds (residential or commercial)?
l Has the plumber been in business for some time?
l Does the company have a positive reputation?
l What about quotes? Are quotes free or come with a fee?
l Can the plumber complete the project during your projected dates for the new build?
Once you’ve found a plumber you like, chat to them on the phone about your project to determine if they are someone you would like to work with on your new building project.
You Will Need a Budget For Plumbing Expenses
A lot of budgeting and pricing approximations need to be done when building a new home or comemrcial building and the plumbing costs will need to be factored in. Your plumber can give you a quote based on what you want and need but first, you’ll need to work this out to some degree and determine the approximate prices for various plumbing fittings, basins, sinks, showers, tap fittings and so on.
If it looks like the cost of plumbing may go over-budget, you’ll have to make some adjustments and opt for cheaper fittings and so on.
Once you have an idea of your budget and collaborate with your plumber regarding your requirements, they’ll then be able to put together a quote for you. If it comes in over-budget, work on it with your plumber until the plumbing aspect of your new build can be done within your proposed budget.
Extra unexpected costs can potentially arise during the building phase, so factor in a little extra in the budget to cover these costs.
Will Gas Be a Part Of Your New Build?
Many Aussie homes and businesses are having gas installed in order to save money on electricity bills. Gas appliances are a lot cheaper to run, making them far more efficient and cost-effective.
Are you planning to include gas in your new build? If so, will you hire a qualified gas fitter or search for a plumbing company that also does gas fitting to design and install the gas pipe network and gas operated appliances?
These days, more and more plumbers are becoming qualified gas fitters, as the two tend to go hand in hand. If you do require gas fitting, then to make life easier, it might be wise to locate a plumber who is also a qualified gas fitter.
Is There Access To the Town Sewerage System?
Whether it’s a house or a commercial premises, does the location have access to the town’s sewerage system? If it doesn’t, then a septic system will need to be installed to handle waste. This is often the case in rural and semi-rural areas, even some locations that may be fairly close to a major town.
If a septic system is required, your plumber will be able to advise you on the right size and type of system you will require to service your needs.
Get Your Plumber Involved Early In the Project
Ideally, you’ll want to have a plumber on board during the planning stages of your new build. Architects handle the majority of the new building planning but the plumbing is an integral part of planning so, if your plumber can be involved by offering their input along the way, this will result in the final plan being exactly as you want it to be.
During this phase, your plumber can help you make the best choices regarding a hot water system, the piping network and design, what fittings and fixtures you should opt for, where various plumbing-related items are best located in certain rooms and more. The earlier you get your plumber involved, the better the outcome is likely to be.
The Takeaway
A lot of planning and forethought needs to go into a new build and as plumbing is a major part of the overall process, careful consideration needs to be given to plumbing (and gas fitting, if required). The more thought and planning that goes into those initial stages, the better the results will be once the new build has been completed.
